Published 1:30 am, Saturday, August 11, 2012

BISD VOTERS MUST RESPOND

I have to assume that taxpayers and voters in our fair city approve of the manner in which our school board is handling our tax dollars. We supported the bond issue because we wish the best for our children and youth. We might, however, have a surplus of tax dollars!

Our board has an unwavering faith in those hired to assist in the construction of our new schools. I am almost certain that the overbilling was a mathematical error. I am almost certain because no one has lost their job. As taxpayers, we need to continue to support those entrusted to handle their fiscal responsibilities. After all, everyone has the best interest of our children in mind.

I know that if it were to become apparent that the board was not acting in our children's best interests, the taxpayers and voters would act to remedy the situation.

I drive a transit bus in Orange County. We transport all citizens to stores, doctor visits or anyplace desired in Orange County for $2 round trip on clean, air-conditioned buses. A round trip to Jefferson County is $5. Twenty-four hours of notice and you are ready to go.

My point is, I am a white male, poor on Social Security and very elderly. I have a Social Security card, a photo ID driver's license, a concealed handgun license and a birth certificate. I voted early on a recent Monday morning. I presented my photo ID and my voter registration and voted with no problem.

To get a voter ID card costs $16 for those under 60 and $6 for those over 60. $16 will not buy a carton of cigarettes and $6 will buy a pack. Spend $2 round trip to the Department of Public Safety office, fill out some papers and you are photo ID'd. It's so simple.

I believe that most people who don't have photo IDs would not vote anyway, but they will complain if the elections don't favor their wishes.